As 2025 races to an end, we can look back at the tremendous success of ALBUM and its members throughout the year.
It doesn’t seem that long ago since we met in Nottingham for one of our most successful conferences, where over 400 delegates gathered for three days of industry insight, innovation and collaboration. The sell out conference welcomed influential speakers and a diverse fleet of buses and industry suppliers who supported us.
Looking ahead, bookings and sponsorship opportunities are open for ALBUM Conference 2026 as we return to the ever popular Blackpool and I’d encourage you to visit the website to ensure you can take advantage of the Early Bird discount on delegate passes before the end of the month.
Last month, ALBUM members achieved outstanding recognition at this year’s UK Bus Awards, including a remarkable ALBUM clean sweep in the Bus Operator of the Year category for a second year running!
A total of 18 awards were presented to ALBUM members and this success followed on from ALBUM member achievements at the Routeone Awards earlier in the month, where four awards were picked up.
These results reflect the consistently high standards and contributions of ALBUM operators across the sector, and on behalf of ALBUM, I extend my congratulations to all winners and finalists for their continued dedication to delivering high-quality bus services.
These achievements place ALBUM operators in a great position to work in partnership with local authorities to achieve the aspirations sought from the Bus Services Act 2025. ALBUM has worked tirelessly to represent the views of the municipal and SME sector and ensured our views have helped shape the final version of the Bill.
2026 will undoubtedly be another challenging year for our industry, but one where ALBUM will continue to represent the views of its members. Through our new Policy Advisor, Alex Perry, ALBUM will work hard to influence the guidance which will accompany the Act and ensure that the value and benefit that locally owned and locally managed bus companies bring to the market are recognised and embraced by the local transport authorities.
But before then, on behalf of ALBUM, I’d like to thank you for your continued support. Without our growing number of associate members and operator members, ALBUM wouldn’t have the voice and influence it does with key stakeholders.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
David Astill, ALBUM Chair